Phew!
What a day... and what a wonderful experience these past few months have been in my life as a professional musician. I often hear that it's hard to re-invent yourself, especially as a musician. I know that in my own life this has been the case. It's always a little bit of this, a little bit of that. Sometimes you find yourself as an "artist" in a period of stagnation. Nothing ever seems productive.
The experience I've had in this past week has really given me more focus than you could imagine. At my school and probably throughout the trumpet communities I'm definitely known as a "jazz" guy. I love picking up my instrument and playing what's in my head. I love the trumpet and always will. When the conductor for these Brandenburg's called me I knew it was an opportunity I had to take. I mean how many times does the "jazz" guy get to play one of the finest pieces of music the trumpet gets to play?
So I gladly accepted, knowing full well that a huge challenge was in store for me... In my body I've always felt a little intimidated by classical music and the belief that I had to be TECHNICALLY perfect... so I often shyed away from that genre. I want to spread my mind musically, let things flow and really enjoy the whole process (not just the thrill of a technically sound gig)
Months later, and tons of score study/listening/recording/and shedding led me to the concert today. Even though it was not perfect (by any stretch) given my current ability I honestly think I could not have played it any better than today. The chops felt great (even after a rough 5 hour rock gig the day before...don't ask!) and I felt at ease with all of my surroundings.
It's opened my mind to the fact is that I'm a TRUMPET player... who loves playing in any genre. Having my lesson with Ed last week (THANK YOU!) really opened my mind to what's possible if I actually get in the trenches and practice. Stay tuned to see what's around the bend... needless to say life is so exciting right now.
So here are the clips from the performance today (youtube sometimes takes a few hours for processing). Please listen to them (and the others) and comment. I'd love to hear if you all have had similar experiences musically.
http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=jazzmanta
Trumpetblazingly yours,
Trent